As the weather cools and flu season approaches, staying up to date on vaccinations is one of the best ways for adults over 60 to protect their health. Older adults are at higher risk for complications from certain illnesses, making vaccines a vital part of preventive care. Here’s a guide to the key vaccines recommended for adults 60 and older this fall.
Keep reading to learn which vaccines adults 60 and older should get this fall, including flu, RSV, pneumonia, shingles, and COVID-19 shots.
Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
The flu vaccine is recommended annually, especially for older adults. The flu can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization, in people with weakened immune systems.
Tip: Ask your healthcare provider whether a high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine is right for you. These are specifically designed to provide stronger protection for adults 65 and older
2. COVID-19 Vaccine
Staying current with COVID-19 vaccination remains essential, as immunity can fade and new variants may emerge.
Why it matters: For adults over 60, COVID-19 can cause severe illness, especially in those with heart disease, diabetes, or lung conditions. Check with your provider about the latest booster recommendations and timing
3. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine
RSV isn’t just a childhood illness. It can cause severe respiratory infections in older adults. The FDA has approved RSV vaccines for people aged 60 and older.
Who should get it: Adults with chronic heart, lung, or immune conditions benefit most from it, but anyone in this age group can consider it after consulting their healthcare provider.
4. Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine
The pneumococcal vaccine protects against bacterial pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
What to know: The CDC recommends that adults aged 65 and older receive one of the newer pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV15 or PCV20). If you previously received an older version, your provider can advise whether you need another dose.
Reference: cdc.gov/
5. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine
The shingles vaccine helps prevent painful shingles outbreaks and long-term nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.
Recommendation: Adults 50 and older should receive two doses of the recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix), given two to six months apart.
6. Tdap or Td Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
Adults should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years. The Tdap version also includes protection against whooping cough, which can still affect adults and be serious for infants you may come in contact with.
Final Thoughts
Vaccinations are essential in keeping adults 60 and older healthy and active throughout the year. If you’re unsure which vaccines you’ve received or when you’re due for a booster, your healthcare provider can review your immunization record and recommend the appropriate options.
Schedule an appointment with the providers at AgeWell Medical Associates to stay protected this fall and beyond.